04-15-1996 Planning Commission Minutes

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MINUTES OF THE ORONO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING HELD ON APRIL 15, 1996 9 ( #9 - #2128 Orono Hockey Boosters - Continued) is Peterson asked about the walkway between the arena and school. The path will be setback from Old Crystal Bay Road, 40' in length, and of bituminous materials. The lease calls for the path to be maintained by the school and replacement costs paid for by the Boosters. Karin 7.eeb said the students will use the hill inside of the path taking the shortest route possible. The fencing placement and material, separating the arena from the residential area, will be determined once the building is erected with direction provided from Gerry Timm as to the type. Jim Grabek, 3050 Jamestown Road, said the project has been underway for years, yet the neighbors have only been involved since January. He said the setback was changed to accommodate the project. He feels the lot is inadequate for the number of parking spaces and will create parking problems during major events. Grabek said, with the shortcoming of the school budget, he objects to spending $175,000. He said the building placement is inconsistent with the comprehensive plan. He noted the plan calls for the promotion of development with that of a neighborhood and not in conflict with a neighborhood. He said he is not opposed to the arena but feels the site is not appropriate to the neighborhood or for the City. Grabek said the arena is inconsistent with the open space plan. Grabek reviewed pictures taken of the site with the Commission in relation to CoRd 6. He asked that the Commission consider moving the building to provide more protection for the neighbors. Grabek said the soil borings are not conclusive that the building could not be moved to the south. Engebretson said he had informed Grabek that if money was the issue, the Boosters would move the arena to the south. He said they reviewed it from an aesthetic and functionality standpoint. Roseboom noted that the building has a corporate look, not that of a building with many loading doors. Roseboom said the preference is not to place a parking lot in front of the door. He noted the receipt of sunlight is the functional factor with a south facing building being the best. Grabek asked about an entrance to the east or the southeast side. Roseboom said arenas work best with entrances on the ends of the building. Grabek suggested entering across the wetland and asked for additional soil borings. Engebretson said there is no reason for additional soil borings as it is not an issue of soils or cost but one of aesthetics and functionality. 15